KR20170095981A - Digital rights management in 3d printing - Google Patents

Abstract

A system, method and medium for managing digital rights and pre-validating structural integrity in three-dimensional (3D) printing are provided. In one example, the system includes at least one module running on one or more computer processors, the at least one module receiving a request from a user to print a 3D object by a three-dimensional (3D) printer or printing service, Receives the conditional approval from the owner of the digital rights of the 3D object, and prints the 3D object. Conditional approval includes printing specifications or restrictions. When at least one module is printed by a 3D printer or printing service, it pre-verifies the digital model on which the 3D object is based, for structural integrity. In response to the received conditional acknowledgment, at least one module transmits the command to the 3D printer or printing service to print the 3D object.

Description

[0001] DIGITAL RIGHTS MANAGEMENT IN 3D PRINTING [0002]

This application claims priority to U.S. Serial No. 14 / 571,629, filed December 16, 2014, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The present application relates generally to the technical field of three-dimensional (3D) printing and, more particularly, to digital rights management and fulfillment of printing services in an online environment. In various embodiments, systems, methods, and media are provided for providing digital rights management and facilitating the use of three-dimensional printing services.

Additive manufacturing or 3D printing is the process of creating 3D solid objects of almost any shape from a digital model. 3D printing is accomplished using a lamination process, and successive layers of material are deposited in different shapes. 3D printing is considered to be distinguished from conventional machining techniques which are largely dependent on the removal of materials by methods such as cutting or drilling (cutting).

3D printing technology is used in the fields of architecture, architecture (AEC), industrial design, automotive, aerospace, military, engineering, civil engineering, dental and medical industry, biotechnology, fashion, shoes, jewelry, It is used for both prototyping and distributed manufacturing, which is applied in information systems, food and many other fields.

On the one hand, it is desirable to promote the ubiquitous use and availability and unique functions of 3D technology, but it is necessary to properly manage the digital rights and prevent the indiscriminate or illegal use of the 3D printing service.

Some embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like elements.
1 is a schematic diagram of uploading 3D designs and specifications to a 3D printing service platform, in accordance with some embodiments.
Figure 2 illustrates exemplary components to include in a graphical user interface, in accordance with some embodiments.
3 is a schematic diagram of a 3D printing service channel, in accordance with some embodiments.
4 illustrates a network diagram illustrating an example system, in accordance with some embodiments.
Figure 5 shows a block diagram of additional details of the example system of Figure 4, in accordance with some embodiments.
Figure 6 illustrates a network diagram illustrating an example system, in accordance with some embodiments.
7 is a flow diagram illustrating the operation of the exemplary method, in accordance with some embodiments.
Figure 8 illustrates a graphical representation of a machine in an exemplary form of a computer system in which a set of internal instructions, according to some embodiments, may be executed to cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein .

The following detailed description includes exemplary systems, methods, techniques, instruction sequences, and computing machine program products embodying the example embodiments. In the following detailed description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the various embodiments of the claimed subject matter. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments of the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In general, well-known instruction instances, protocols, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail. In this specification, the terms "user" and "participant" are used interchangeably in the context unless otherwise indicated.

In some embodiments, a three-dimensional (3D) printing marketplace is created in which 3D printing service providers compete to perform requests for 3D printing tasks. In some instances, the 3D printing marketplace may allow a marketplace participant such as a CAD designer, manufacturer, engineer, consumer, etc. to design or specifications (generally referred to herein as "digital models"), Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > marketplace platform hosted by < / RTI > In some examples, the upload cost is claimed based on, for example, a fixed price, or a variable price based on the file size. In some instances, the uploaded design is displayed to a 3D service provider or user (buyer) participating in the marketplace. The display may occur through a variety of communication media such as web-enabled devices, mobile applications, and the like. In some instances, buyers may select a 3D printing service to print a 3D version of the displayed design. In some instances, the 3D service provider may compete or bid to complete a 3D printing task based on the displayed design. The buyer or the 3D service provider can select the printing option associated with the displayed design from the array of available 3D printing options. In some instances, the 3D printing marketplace may access a system of associated 3D printing services, or a network of such services. Associated or networked printing services may be ranked or displayed to the buyer in the order of preference or other identified criteria. As used herein, the term "ranking" includes "listing ", where appropriate, these terms are used interchangeably.

In one example, the buyer may seek approval from the digital rights holder or the content provider to complete the digital model for 3D printing, or to complete the request. As used herein, the term digital rights refers to any person or entity that enables an individual or entity to access, use, create, reproduce and publish digital media, or access and use a computer, other electronic device, Quot; In particular, the term refers to the protection and realization of existing rights, such as copyrights or other design rights attributed to a three-dimensional product, and includes the rights to a digital model of a three-dimensional product or a variant thereof. The owner of the digital rights may be, for example, the original owner, author, designer or such licensee or transferee of such rights. The term "digital rights" is not intended to be limiting, and references to the owner of the digital rights of the 3D object are intended to include any entity having rights to create, use or regenerate the 3D object. The owner may authorize others to use the digital rights attributed to the 3D object or the digital model of the object.

In some instances, if not approved, the buyer is regulated for 3D printing of the digital model using any 3D printing service. In some cases, the buyer may be limited to the number of 3D models authorized for copying by 3D printing. In some instances, the digital rights holder may pre-authorize the reproduction of the digital model for 3D printing in return for payment by the buyer of royalties or other costs. Pre-authorizations for printing specific digital models can be made public in the 3D printing marketplace. Preapproval may be expressed or implemented in a marketplace in a variety of formats discussed further below. Payment for royalties may be collected by a participant in the 3D marketplace, for example, a 3D printing service provider, a retailer (e.g., a toy store or a Disney channel outlet), or an electronic store. In some instances, the royalty payment or certification fee is included in the service charge for the 3D printing service.

In some instances, the purchaser may select a 3D printing option that is available or order a design or digital model for 3D printing and, in some instances, purchase a design or model, design or model rights, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > three-dimensional < / RTI > In some instances, the printing option for the buyer may include downloading a design file (or a digital model) for use, requesting a printing service that is limited to only 3D transformations, requesting delivery of the 3D printed object to the buyer address , And a 3D printing service can print and deliver 3D objects from its facility. The printing option may include requesting a fast delivery of a 3D printed object to the buyer's address on the same day (e.g., using a "now printing" facility), or a moving facility such as a nearby 3D printing kiosk or 3D printing van Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > 3D < / RTI > In some instances, a 3D kiosk or mobile facility may form part of a federated or networked system of 3D printing services discussed above.

Thus, the example systems and related methods and media include at least one module running on one or more computer processors to receive a request from a user to print a 3D object by means of a 3D printer or printing service, (Referred to herein as regulated or conditional approval) from the owner of the digital rights of the 3D object, and the limited acknowledgment includes printing specifications or restrictions, and if printed by the 3D printer or printing service, For structural integrity, the digital model based on the 3D object is pre-verified and the command is sent to the 3D printer or printing service based on the received limited acknowledgment to print the 3D object. Limited authorization may be preauthorization to print a 3D object, and at least one module may expose preauthorization in an open network, e.g., an electronic marketplace or environment. Limited, regulated, or conditional approval is an approval that has its own restrictions, limitations or conditions.

The at least one module may also receive authentication of the 3D printer or printing service and disclose the authentication in the public network.

In some instances, the at least one module may allow a user to initiate a request for authorization to print a 3D object from the owner of the digital rights to the 3D object, and to receive the 3D object from the 3D printer, It may further include limited approval.

Conveniently, at least one module processes the monetary charge for the received limited acknowledgment to remit the monetary charge to the owner of the digital rights of the 3D object.

In some examples, at least one module communicates with the 3D printer service provider's network and lists 3D printing service providers based on availability or suitability to perform 3D printing tasks, or by other criteria received from a user. For further convenience, the network of the 3D printer service provider may include a mobile printing facility.

At least one module may, in some instances, embed, associate, or direct the digital rights management device in an approved printed 3D object. This can prevent further copying of 3D objects. In some instances, at least one module creates a 3D printing option for display to a user, the 3D printing option includes a digital model download option, a print option, a shipping option, a same-day shipping option, and a print option in a kiosk or mobile facility ≪ / RTI >

In another example, the system includes a portal that enables a digital rights holder to register rights to a digital model or a 3D printed object. At least one module may disclose the digital rights registration of the 3D object in the public network, or may transmit the registration to the user or another third party.

Referring now to the accompanying drawings in FIG. 1, a participant in an online or electronic 3D printing marketplace environment, generally designated by reference numeral 100, is displayed in action 101, such as the 3D printing service sales platform 102 , You can submit or upload designs or specifications (digital models) for 3D printing as a marketplace sales platform. The marketplace participant may generate or generate a proprietary 3D design or digital model, for example, a CAD designer 104, a manufacturer (e.g., direct or initial design) 106, a consumer (or individual) 108, And may include an entity 110 that owns the device. The entity 110 may include, for example, a retailer, a merchant, a branded entity, a TV channel or an electronic store. Other examples of marketplace participants are possible. In some instances, the participant owns the digital model submitted to the 3D printing service sales platform 102 and the rights to the printed 3D object based on this model.

In some instances, an online 3D printing service (or, for example, an online retailer) represents a marketplace interface that displays various 3D printing service options, including different ways to select and purchase these services. In some instances, the interface enables a user (e.g., a purchaser) to obtain or pay for an authorization for 3D printing of a digital model from a digital rights holder. In some instances, a portal is provided that enables the rights holder of the digital model to register these rights or to authorize or authorize permission for 3D printing of the model. In some instances, the digital rights holder can prevent 3D printing of the digital model or regulate the creation of multiple copies. A monitoring or gate-keeper function for 3D printing of the digital model can be enabled, for example, by a printing service or a marketplace host.

2, an exemplary interface 200 displayed by a 3D printing service may include, among other components, an access link 202 suitable for an electronic store, a mobile application interface, or a web site, and / Other types of visual or auditory media may be included. In the illustrative interface 200, "3D Design Download" 204, "3D Design Only Printing" 206, "Printed 3D Object Delivery" 208, "3D Printed Object Day Shipping" 210, And "3D design printing " 212 in a kiosk are provided. In some instances, "3D digital rights search" 214 and / or "3D digital rights registration / grant" 216 user interface components are provided. In some instances, additional user interface components are provided that enable a purchaser to select a calculation flow using a third party payment service provider. The interface 200 is merely an example. The ad banner 202 and user interface components 204-216 are merely illustrative. Other illustrative user interface and interface components are possible.

3, an exemplary 3D printing service channel in the 3D printing marketplace environment 300 includes a 3D printing service 301, a web channel 302, a mobile channel 304, a 3D print kiosk or a vehicle 306, , And a printing position 308. [ The kiosk and vehicle 306 and printing location 308 may be branded, for example, by a major retailer, a 3D service provider, or an electronic marketplace host.

In some instances, a 3D printing authentication device (e.g., a symbol, graphic mark or word, brand or trademark) is displayed in a user interface associated with the 3D printing service 301 and the approved 3D printing right is displayed on a particular 3D printing service 301) or that other marketplace participants are participating in or offering 3D printing services. The device can be encrypted or tailored in a suitable manner, so that it can be authenticated or guaranteed to grant the true rights of the digital model. In some examples, the use of a device or proxy by a 3D printing service provider (or other marketplace participant) may be determined, for example, using a defined period, a geographic location or region, a defined buyer, a defined 3D printed object, Use, defined characteristics, etc., of the digital rights holder in connection with at least one aspect. For example, regulation may be based on compliance with national or international laws, regulations, contractual rights, security laws, gun ownership laws, and constitutional freedoms.

Other examples of conditional acceptance of digital rights include restricting or setting a fixed number of authorized products or objects for which authorization can be printed, and then deactivating the digital file or 3D printer associated with the copy. In another example, a designated 3D printer or digital file may be provided to a user for a limited purpose of printing a particular object under certain conditions.

Certain products can lead to their value by virtue of their relative lack, which may seem to be in conflict with the unlimited copy opportunities offered by 3D printing. This disclosure enables limited reproduction of a "limited edition" or other unique type of merchandise. From a macroscopic point of view, the example system enables a fixed number of copies that can be made into a product, and no more copies can be created. Thus, one example is to create a defined pool or set of acknowledgments for rare objects to be replicated by 3D printing, either by the digital rights holder or the other party, Reducing the pool or set. These regulations on approval can maintain the scarcity or value of rare or limited edition items.

In another example, a digital rights holder (e.g., a sports souvenir merchant) may send 3D printing, such as a souvenir, to a specific date (e.g., the finals of the World Series) or only within a certain time period Or to authorize it to create. This can increase the demand or interest of such a souvenir item and, along with the above examples, maintain luxury and lasting value.

In some instances, the digital rights holder can authorize the printing service and the marketplace host (or other marketplace participant) can perform 3D printing of the proprietary digital model based on the 3D printing service 301 or permission by certain trading terms . In some instances, the authorization may be pre-authorization or may be provided on-demand. The transaction terms can be presented to the buyer while the buyer selects various examples of 3D printing options, as discussed further above. In addition to paying for the 3D printing service, payment for accessing or exercising the granted digital rights may also be enabled and presented to the purchaser during the calculation flow. Eventually, one or more third party payment service providers may be used. For example, the cost model may be generated based on purchase or delivery options selected by the buyer in the computational flow. In some instances, a monetary or royalties flow according to the digital rights holder can be separated from income derived from the purchase of the 3D printing service. The authentication device may be utilized to manage digital rights exercises and some examples are discussed below.

In some instances, digital rights to brands, TV channels, movies, and other entertainment media are approved and managed using the systems, methods, and media described herein. For example, a 3D authentication device in an interface that manages requests and approvals for printing 3D versions of a Disney ™ character includes a representation of a Mickey Mouse. The representation may include a secondary or three dimensional view of the Mickey Mouse, or a hologram effect. The authentication symbols may be associated with code submitted to the 3D machine or with other credentials. The code or credential may relate to a particular mode, code or number of 3D printing approved by the digital rights holder. For example, the code or other credential may include a 3D printing request or command sent to the 3D printing facility. The printing facility can be a kiosk or a moving 3D printing van as discussed above. A wide variety of 3D printing orders can be provided and customized while maintaining the rights of digital rights holders.

In some instances, the need for 3D printing of objects is posted to the online marketplace. For example, a user looking for a replacement case for a smartphone (e.g., Droid ™ Laser ™) may request the 3D printing service 301 to post this need and create a replacement case. The order processing price may be set by the user or printer service (or other marketplace participant) at a fixed or variable price, for example, by auction, RFP, or other method. The ability to obtain approval from the owner of the digital rights to the smartphone case (eg, Samsung) or to pay royalties or costs is provided.

In some instances, the digital model is verified before 3D printing is printed in a particular form or after production to check whether it is possible to represent structural integrity or a particular feature. For example, to avoid structural vulnerabilities or risk of corruption in 3D-printed objects, the 3D printing service 301 or the digital rights holder may provide commands or algorithms to account for material selection, object configuration, or size, An object that is proposed to be printed in dimensions can be evaluated or guaranteed whether it can stand or be unhelpful. Other examples of validation criteria are possible. In some instances, preliminary verification of a digital model or proposed 3D object is important to the digital rights holder to avoid damage to the brand. The 3D printing of thousands of Mickey Mouse ™ sculptures, each of which can not be tilted, stuck or can easily be broken by children, can adversely affect brand owners, so the way 3D printing is done needs to be controlled.

Using unauthorized 3D printing to make a copy of the original work can raise additional quality concerns. For example, poorly made Lego ™ blocks or other brand toys can have a negative impact on brand image and evaluation. One proposed solution is to allow printing of these branded toys only to prints of specific functions and settings. The brand owner can also specify that only certain quality printers that follow the settings determined by the brand owner are allowed to print the brand toys. In a particular aspect, a feedback loop is provided to allow a copy object printed by a particular printer to be inspected through an automated process (e.g., a visual sensor, etc.) to ensure that the quality of the object produced by the approved 3D printer remains authenticated Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > of: < / RTI >

The management of these additional aspects may also be desirable when the buyer or 3D service provider has obtained or granted 3D printing approval using the exemplary method or system described above. In some examples, a combination of authentication device, code and / or credential and validation commands or algorithms is utilized by a digital rights holder, a 3D service provider (or other marketplace participant) to manage and implement 3D printing requests and order processing .

In some instances, the workpiece or other device is embedded in a digital model or 3D printed object that disallows or controls additional production. A "design fingerprint" may be used in a manner that is encrypted or hidden to prevent unauthorized 3D scanning or printing of the object. In some examples, a chip, code or tag embedded in an object, e.g., a Mickey Mouse ™ sculpture, can be scanned (or configured or obtained) to acknowledge, control, or prevent a 3D printing copy of the object more than once, May be approved by Disney ™ in the case of a digital rights holder, for example, Mickey Mouse ™. In some instances, a chip, code or tag is provided in some instances as an "original" version of an object that can be created using casting, cutting, or other conventional processing techniques. In some examples, a 3D printed copy of an object, or a digital model or scan in which an object can be created, includes a chip, code or tag. In some instances, the 3D printing service 301 may be sent to a facility or a facility and printed by the service or facility to include a chip, code or tag in the 3D object. Transmission may include 3D printing commands that are sent by the 3D printing service 301 to a printing facility (e.g., a kiosk or a moving van). In some instances, a user (buyer, service provider, or other marketplace participant) can source chips, codes, or tags from a digital rights holder or an owner's agent. This sourcing can form part of the approval options discussed further above. In some instances, the digital rights holder may delegate the inclusion of a chip, code or tag to a 3D printed object when providing the approval to the user or the 3D printing service 301.

In some instances, the rights managed by the subject matter of the invention relate to compliance aspects such as CBT, taxes, duties, imports, exports, copyrights or other patents. In one example, gun regulatory authorization can manage or prevent 3D replication of weapons, firearms, projectiles, ammunition, and the like. In some instances, an algorithm or code may be used to modify 3D printed objects to comply with local regulations or regulations.

As described above, the 3D printing marketplace may include or access a system of associated 3D printing services 301. The associated 3D printing service 301 may be ranked by the marketplace participant and displayed based on user preference order or other identified criteria identified by the user (e.g., the buyer).

In some examples, a computer implemented system for managing digital rights associated with 3D printing of a digital model is provided. The system may include a computing device that implements a 3D printing marketplace component and the marketplace component further includes a merchant unit, a transaction unit, a consumer unit, and a digital rights admission unit, and the merchant unit, transaction unit, The digital rights granting unit collaboratively receives requests for 3D printing tasks from the consumer, and based on the availability or suitability to perform 3D printing tasks, or with other 3D printing service providers Allowing a 3D service provider selected by the consumer or consumer to obtain 3D printing approval from the owner of the digital rights associated with the requested 3D printing task and allowing the owner of the digital rights to send 3D printing approval to the consumer or selected 3D service provider To the public Enable and operate at the expense of the consumer or the selected 3D services from approved providers use to collect a royalty or fee. The unit can also work collaboratively to collect fees from consumers for order processing of the requested 3D printing tasks. In some instances, the unit may also collaborate collaboratively to publish or communicate certified prior approvals granted by the digital rights holder for 3D printing tasks or services to the 3D printing marketplace.

Thus, in some embodiments, the system includes at least one module and memory running on one or more computer processors, which host or participate in a 3D printing marketplace environment 300 that includes a marketplace participant, The place participant includes at least one 3D printing service provider, receives a request to print a 3D object from a 3D printing service provider from a marketplace participant, and receives an authorization to print the 3D object from the owner of the digital rights to the 3D object And sends an instruction to the 3D printing service provider to print the 3D object based on the received acknowledgment.

In some examples, the approval is pre-approval for printing the defined 3D object in three dimensions, and at least one module also publishes the pre-approval and representation of the 3D object defined in the 3D marketplace environment. In some examples, the at least one module also authenticates the received acknowledgment and displays the authenticated acknowledgment to the marketplace participant. In some instances, the at least one module also allows the marketplace participant to initiate a request for approval to print the 3D object from the owner of the digital rights to the 3D object.

In some examples, the at least one module also includes an acknowledgment received in an instruction sent to the 3D printing service provider. In some examples, the at least one module also verifies the digital model on which the 3D object is based before the 3D object is printed. In some examples, at least one module receives a monetary price for the received approval from the marketplace participant and remits the monetary value to the owner of the digital rights for the printed 3D object.

In some instances, the at least one module also communicates with the 3D printer service provider's network and determines a 3D printing service provider based on availability or suitability for performing 3D printing tasks, or other criteria received from the marketplace participant do. In some instances, the network of 3D printing service providers includes a mobile printing facility.

In some examples, the at least one module also directs or directs the digital rights management device to be embedded in the approved printed 3D object.

In some examples, at least one module also displays 3D printing options to marketplace participants, and the 3D printing options include design download options, design printing options, printed object option delivery, 3D object day shipping options, and kiosk or mobile van Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > and / or < / RTI >

In some instances, the system further includes a portal that enables the digital rights holder to register rights with the digital model or the 3D printed object. In some examples, the at least one module also publishes the registration of the digital rights to the 3D printing marketplace or communicates the registration to the marketplace participant. In some instances, a system comprising at least one module may be configured to perform any of the operations, functions, and methods discussed in this disclosure.

In some embodiments, non-transitory machine-readable media may comprise a set of instructions, when executed on the machine, that cause the machine to perform any of the operations, functions, and methods discussed in this disclosure.

Referring again to the accompanying drawings, FIG. 4 illustrates a network diagram illustrating an exemplary system 400 for providing 3D printing services provided in a 3D printing service marketplace (e-commerce environment), in accordance with some embodiments. The networked system 402 forms a network-based system that provides server-side functionality to one or more clients and devices over a network 404 (e.g., the Internet or a wide area network (WAN)). Figure 4 also illustrates one or both of the web client 406 (e.g., a web browser) and the program client 408 running on the client machines 410 and 412, for example. In one embodiment, the system 400 includes a marketplace system. In another embodiment, system 400 includes, but is not limited to, other types of systems such as social networking systems, matching systems, electronic commerce (e-commerce) systems, and the like.

Each of the client machines 410 and 412 includes a computing device that includes at least a display and a communication function with the network 404 to access the networked system 402. [ The client machines 410 and 412 may be any of a variety of types including but not limited to a workstation, a computer, a general purpose computer, an Internet appliance, a handheld device, a wireless device, a portable device, a wearable computer, a cellular or mobile telephone, a PDA, , Ultrabooks, netbooks, laptops, desktops, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, game consoles, set-top boxes, network PCs, minicomputers and the like. Each of the client machines 410, 412 may connect to the network 404 via a wired or wireless connection. For example, one or more portions of the network 404 may be an ad hoc network, an intranet, an extranet, a virtual private network (VPN), a local area network (LAN), a wireless local area network (WLAN), a wide area network (WAN) (WWAN), a central area network (MAN), a portion of the Internet, a portion of a public switched telephone network (PSTN), a cellular telephone network, a wireless network, a WiFi network, a WiMAX network, 404). ≪ / RTI >

Each of the client machines 410 and 412 may include one or more applications (such as a web browser, a messaging application, an email (email) application, an e-commerce site application (also referred to as a marketplace application including a 3D printing service application) Quot; app "). In some embodiments, if an e-commerce site application is included in any of the client machines 410, 412, the application configured to communicate with the networked system 402 may be configured to communicate with a user interface At least a portion of the functionality for data and / or processing capabilities (e.g., access to a database of 3D printing services available for authenticating users, etc., verifiable payment methods, sellable items) . Conversely, if an e-commerce site application is not included in a given one of the client machines 410 and 412, then a given one of the client machines 410 and 412 may be an e-commerce site hosted on the networked system 402 ) To access the web browser. Although two client machines 410 and 412 are shown in FIG. 4, more or less than two client machines may be included in the system 400.

The application program interface (API) server 414 and the web server 416 are connected to provide one or more application servers 418, respectively, with a programmatic web interface. The application server 418 hosts one or more marketplace applications 420 and a payment application 422. The marketplace application 420 may include a 3D printing service application. The application server 418 is shown connected to one or more database servers 424 that eventually provide access to one or more databases 426.

The marketplace application 420 may provide a plurality of electronic commerce functions and services to a user accessing the networked system 402. An e-commerce function / service may include a number of publisher functions and services (e.g., search, listing, viewing content, payment, etc.). For example, the marketplace application 420 may provide a user with a search for a product and / or service for goods and / or services, a search for goods and services, a transaction, and a transaction and / May provide a number of services and features for reviewing and providing feedback on the < RTI ID = 0.0 > The service may include a 3D printing service. Additionally, the marketplace application 420 may track and store data and metadata associated with listings, transactions, 3D service providers, rankings, and user interactions. The data may include digital rights data, digital rights authentication and registration, a digital model of the type discussed elsewhere herein, and 3D object validation data. In some embodiments, the marketplace application 420 may provide or provide access to an item of content stored in an application server 418 or database 426 accessible to the application server 418 and / or the database server 424 .

Similarly, the payment application 422 may provide a plurality of payment services and functions to the user. The payment application 422 may allow the user to accumulate a value in the account (e.g., a commercial currency such as the US dollar, or a proprietary currency such as "points ", and then store the accumulated value in a marketplace application 420 (E. G., Goods or services) available via the payment application 422. The payment application 422 may be used to make payments for the merchant < RTI ID = 0.0 > The payment application 422 may return a portion of the revenue to the marketplace controller for use of the sensitivity profile to manage the sales transaction and activate the sale conversion. Cost, etc. The payment application 422 may be used to facilitate the collection, It may be configured or coded to enable any of the cash related operation, function, and method steps.

Although the marketplace and payment applications 420 and 422 are shown in Figure 4 and all form part of a networked system 402, in an alternate embodiment, the payment application 422 is separate from the networked system 402 And may form part of a separate payment service. In another embodiment, the payment application 422 may be omitted from the system 400. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the marketplace application 420 may be provided on the client machine 410 and / or 412.

It should also be appreciated that although the system 400 shown in FIG. 4 employs a client-server architecture, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to this architecture and may be distributed or peer-to- peer architecture systems. The various marketplace and payment applications 420 and 422 may also be implemented as standalone software programs and not necessarily networking functions.

The web client 406 accesses the various marketplace and payment applications 420 and 422 via the web interface supported by the web server 416. Similarly, the program client 408 accesses various services and functions provided by the marketplace and payment applications 420 and 422 via the program interface provided by the API server 414. The program client 408 enables the merchant to create and manage listings on the networked system 402 in an offline manner and to enable the merchant to create and manage listings in a batch mode between the program client 408 and the networked system 402. [ (e. g., a TurboLister application developed by eBay Inc. of San Jose, Calif.) that enables it to perform batch-mode communications.

4 also shows a third party application 428 running on the third party server machine 430, having program access to the networked system 402 via the program interface provided by the API server 414 Respectively. For example, the third party application 428 utilizes information retrieved from the networked system 402 to support one or more features or functions on a web site hosted by a third party. The third party web site may provide one or more promotional, marketplace, 3D printing services, or payment functions, for example, supported by associated applications of the networked system 402.

FIG. 5 illustrates a block diagram illustrating components that are provided in a networked system 402 in accordance with some embodiments. The networked system 402 may be hosted on a dedicated or shared server machine (not shown) that is communicatively coupled to enable communication between server machines. The components themselves are communicatively coupled to each other and to various data sources (e.g., via a suitable interface) to enable information to be passed between applications, or to allow applications to share and access common data . In addition, the component may access one or more databases 426 via the database server 424.

The networked system 402 may provide a number of public, listing, and / or pricing mechanisms, and the merchant (also referred to as the first user) may provide merchandise or services And the buyer (also referred to as the second user) can indicate that he or she is interested in purchasing or bartering the goods or services, Transaction) may be completed in connection with a goods or service. As a result, the networked system 402 may include at least one public engine 502 and one or more sales engines 504. The disclosure engine 502 may publish information on the networked system 402, such as an item or service listing or product description page. In some embodiments, the sales engine 504 may include one or more fixed price engines that support a fixed price listing and price fixing mechanism, and one or more auction engines that support an auction format listing and pricing mechanism (e.g., , English, Dutch, Chinese, double auction, reverse auction, etc.). A variety of auction engines may also provide a number of features that support auction format listings, such as a reverse price feature, the seller specifies a reverse price associated with the listing and proxy bidding feature, and the bidder invokes an automated proxy bid . Merchant engine 504 may further include one or more transaction engines that support merchant-generated offers for products and services.

The listing engine 506 enables the seller to easily create a listing of items or create a publisher's listing. In one embodiment, the listing is associated with a product or service (including a 3D printing service) that the user (e.g., a merchant) wants to trade through the networked system 402. In some embodiments, the listing may be a proposal, transaction, coupon or discount for the goods or services. Each product or service is associated with a particular category. The listing engine 506 may receive listing data such as title, description, and index name / value pairs. Also, listings for products or services may be assigned item identifiers. In another embodiment, the user may create an advertisement or other form of information disclosure listing. The listing information may also be stored in one or more storage devices coupled to networked system 402 (e.g., database 426). The listing may also include a product description page that displays the product and information associated with the product (e.g., product title, specifications, and reviews). In some embodiments, the product description page may include a collection of item listings corresponding to the products described on the product description page.

The listing engine 506 may also enable the buyer to conveniently create a listing or request for an item they wish to purchase. In some embodiments, the listing may be associated with a product or service that a user (e.g., a purchaser) wants to trade through the networked system 402. Each product or service is associated with a particular category. The listing engine 506 may receive more or less listing data, such as title, description, and index name / value pairs that the buyer perceives about the requested item. In some embodiments, the listing engine 506 may parse the buyer's submitted item information and complete an incomplete portion of the listing. For example, if the buyer provides a brief description of the requested item, the listing engine 506 may parse the description, extract the key terms, and use the term to determine the item's ID. Using the determined item ID, the listing engine 506 may retrieve additional item details for inclusion in the buyer item request. In some embodiments, the listing engine 506 may assign an item ID to each listing for a goods or service.

In some embodiments, the listing engine 506 may enable the merchant to generate a discount offer for the product or service. The listing engine 506 may receive listing data, such as prices and / or discounts for proposed products or services, products or services, periods for which the offer is valid, and so on. In some embodiments, the listing engine 506 allows the seller to generate offers from the seller ' s mobile device. The generated proposal can be uploaded to the networked system 402 for storage and tracking. In some embodiments, the sales engine 504 or the listing engine 506 may enable the user to request the use of a sensitivity profile to suggest items listed for sale in the marketplace.

Searching for the networked system 402 is provided by the search engine 508. For example, search engine 508 enables keyword queries of published listings via networked system 402. In an exemplary embodiment, the search engine 508 receives a keyword query from a user's device and reviews a storage device that has stored listing information. The review will enable a collection of listing result sets to be sorted and returned to the user's client device (e.g., client machine 410, 412). Search engine 508 may record queries (e.g., keywords) and any subsequent user actions and actions (e.g., navigation).

The search engine 508 may also perform searches based on the user's location. The user may access the search engine 508 via the mobile device and create a search query. Using the search query and the location of the user, the search engine 508 may return relevant search results for the product, service, offer, auction, etc. to the user. The search engine 508 may identify the search results graphically in the form of a list and on the map. Selection of a graphical marker on the map may provide additional details about the selected search result. In some embodiments, a user may specify a radius or distance from the user's current location as part of a search query to limit the search results.

The search engine 508 may also perform image-based searches. The image may be taken from the imaging component of the camera or client device or may be accessed from the storage.

In a further example, the navigation engine 510 may enable a user to navigate through various categories, catalogs, or inventory data structures as listings may be classified within the networked system 402. [ For example, the navigation engine 510 makes it possible to successfully navigate down the category tree containing the hierarchy of categories until a particular set of listings is achieved. Various other navigation applications within the navigation engine 510 may be provided to supplement the search and browsing applications. The navigation engine 510 may record various user actions (e.g., clicks) performed by the user to navigate down the category tree.

In some embodiments, the 3D printing service and authentication module 512 may be configured to create and implement the 3D printing service 310, authentication, registration, verification, and other functions and methods described herein. It is contemplated that the 3D printing service and authentication module 412 may be further configured to provide or perform any feature, function, method, or operation associated with 3D printing disclosed herein.

Additional modules and engines associated with networked system 402 are described in further detail below. It will be appreciated that various aspects of the details set forth below may be implemented.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a networked system 600 configured to process a process, such as described herein, in accordance with some embodiments. The system 600 includes a client device 610, a merchant device (e.g., server) 640, and a payment provider server 670 that communicate over a network 660. Payment provider server 670 may be maintained by a service or payment provider, such as PayPalInk, or eBay Inc, of San Jose, CA. A user 605, such as a consumer, can utilize the client device 610 to perform a purchase transaction provided by the payment provider server 670, along with one or more merchants.

The client device 610, the merchant device 640, and the payment provider server may each comprise one or more processors, memories, and other suitable devices for executing instructions, such as program code and / or data, stored on one or more computer- Data, and steps described herein, including components. For example, the instructions may be stored in one or more computer readable media, such as internal and / or external memory or data storage devices of various components of the system 600, and / or accessible via the network 660 .

The network 660 may be implemented as a single network or a combination of multiple networks. For example, in various embodiments, the network 660 may include the Internet or one or more intranets, landline networks, wireless networks, and / or other suitable types of networks.

The client device 610 may be implemented using any suitable hardware and software configured for wired and / or wireless communication over the network 660. [ For example, in one embodiment, the client device 610 may send data, such as a personal computer (PC), a smart phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a laptop computer, and / And / or other types of computing devices capable of receiving data.

The client device 610 may include one or more browser applications 615 that may be used, for example, to provide a user-friendly interface that allows the user 605 to browse available information via the network 660. For example, in one embodiment, the browser application 615 may be implemented as a web browser configured to view information available over the Internet or access the payment provider ' s web site. The client device 610 may also include one or more toolbar applications 620 that may be used, for example, to provide client-side processing for performing a desired task in response to an action selected by the user 605 . In some embodiments, the toolbar application 620 may display a user interface with respect to the browser application 615. [

The client device 610 may further include other applications 635 that may be desirable in certain embodiments to provide the desired functionality to the client device 610. [ For example, other applications 635 may include security applications for implementing client-side security functions, program client applications for interfacing with a suitable application programming interface (API) via network 660, or other types of applications . Other applications 635 may also include e-mail, text, voice, and IM applications that enable the user 605 to send and receive e-mail, telephone, text, and other notifications over the network 660. [ The client device 610 may be, for example, an operating system registry entry, a cookie associated with the browser application 615, an identifier associated with the hardware of the client device 610, or any other suitable And may include one or more user identifiers 630, which may be implemented as identifiers. In some embodiments, the user identifier 630 may be used by the payment service provider to associate the user 605 with a particular account maintained by the payment provider. Along with the associated interface, the communication application 625 enables the client device 610 to communicate within the system 600.

Merchant device 640 may be maintained by merchants or sellers offering various items, products and / or services (including 3D printing services), for example, via an online site or app. In general, merchant device 640 may be maintained by any person or entity receiving money, including retailers and restaurants as well as charitable organizations. Merchant device 640 includes a database 645 that identifies available products and / or services (e.g., collectively referred to as items) that may be available for viewing and purchase by user 605 . Merchant device 640 also includes a marketplace application 650 (one of which may be configured to provide information to client device 610's browser application 615 and / or payment provider server 670 via network 660) Including the above 3D printing service application). In one embodiment, the user 605 may interact with the marketplace application 650 to view the various 3D printing services 310 available for purchase from the merchant.

The merchant device 640 also includes a checkout application 655 that can be configured to provide purchases by the user 605 of the 3D printed object or 3D printing service 310 identified by the marketplace application 650 . The checkout application 655 may be configured to accept payment information from the user 605 or on behalf of the user via the payment provider server 670 via the network 660. [ For example, the checkout application 655 may receive and process payment acknowledgments from the payment provider server 670 as well as send transaction information to the payment provider and receive information from the payment provider (e.g., transaction ID) . The checkout application 655 may also be configured to accept one or more other funding sources for payment.

Merchant device 640 also includes registration and authorization applications 665 that enable the management of digital rights to 3D printed objects and digital models in accordance with any of the operations, functions, and methods described elsewhere herein . For example, the owner of the digital rights may use the registration and authorization application 665 to register the rights of a given 3D object or digital model, or to publish or regulate this right in a 3D marketplace environment. In another example, a 3D printing service provider may use a registration and authorization application 665 to authenticate or verify a 3D object or digital model prior to 3D printing. Other examples are possible, such as those presented in the method operations discussed below.

The payment provider server 670 may be maintained by an online service provider that may, for example, provide a payment between the user 605 and an operator of the merchant device 640. In this regard, the payment provider server 670 may be configured to retrieve the merchant offer and price as discussed above, as well as to provide a network 660 to the user 605 of the client device 610 to provide a purchase of the product or service And one or more payment applications 675 that can be configured to interact with the client device 610 and the merchant device 640 via the Internet.

The payment provider server 670 may also maintain a plurality of user accounts 680, each of which may include account information 685 associated with an individual user 605. For example, account information 685 may include an account number, a password, a device identifier, a user name, a telephone number, credit card information, banking information, or other financial information that may be used to provide online transactions by the user 605 As well as sensitive profile data or personal finance information of the user 605 of the device. Account information 685 may also include information associated with the payment processor described herein. The payment application 675 can be configured to interact with the merchant device 640 instead of the user 605 during the transaction with the checkout application 655 that handles the payment.

The transaction processing application 690, which may be part of or separate from the payment application 675, may be coupled to the client device 610 and / or the merchant device 610 for processing and storage in the payment database 695, (E. G., ≪ / RTI > The transaction processing application 690 may include one or more applications that process information from the user 605 and / or merchant to process transactions from the client device 610, as described herein. As such, the transaction processing application 690 can store the details from the transaction or e-mail and thus associate the details with the individual user 605. The transaction processing application 690 may also regulate payment between the user 605 and the marketplace controller, for example, based on usage by the user 605 of the stored sensitivity profile. The payment application 675 can be used to determine and manage the existence of an account for the user 605, as well as create new accounts, perform tasks such as setup, digital rights management, Service.

Some of the embodiments disclosed herein include methods. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a method 700 for managing digital rights in a 3D printing operation. The operation of the method 700 may be performed by a client machine 410, a client machine 412, a client machine 412, or a client machine 412 included in a networked system 402 (e.g., an API server 414, a web server 416, or an application server 418) ), A client device 610, a merchant device 640, and / or a server. Operation may be performed by one or more modules (e.g., 3D printing service and authentication module 512). The various operations of the method 700 may be performed in a different order and the method 700 may include only some of the operations described below.

The method 700 includes receiving a request from a user to print a 3D object by a 3D printer or printing service at operation 712 and displaying the digital rights of the 3D object to print the 3D object, (Also referred to herein as regulated or conditional approval) from the owner, the limited acknowledgment includes printing specifications or restrictions, and, at operation 716, printing by the 3D printer or printing service And, for structural integrity, pre-validating the digital model on which the 3D object is based, and, in step 718, sending the command to the 3D printer or printing service based on the received limited acknowledgment to print the 3D object . ≪ / RTI >

In some embodiments, at operation 720, the restricted authorization is a pre-authorization to print the 3D object, and the method 700 further comprises publishing the pre-authorization to the public network.

The method 700 may include, at operation 722, receiving authentication of the 3D printer or printing service and publishing the authentication in the public network. The method 700 may also include, at operation 724, allowing the user to initiate a request for approval to print a 3D object from the owner of the digital rights of the 3D object.

In a further example, the received limited acknowledgment is included in the command sent to the 3D printer or printing service. Additionally, the method 700 may include processing the monetary charge for the received limited acknowledgment, and sending the monetary charge to the owner of the digital rights of the 3D object.

In a further example, the method 700 may include communicating with a network of 3D printer service providers, listing 3D printing service providers based on availability or suitability to perform 3D printing tasks, or other criteria received from a user . The network of 3D printer service providers includes mobile printing facilities.

The method 700 may include embedding or associating or directing the digital rights management device to an approved printed 3D object and in some additional examples creating a 3D printing option for display to a user , And the 3D printing options include one or more of a digital model download option, a printing option, a shipping option, a same-day shipping option, and a printing option in a kiosk or mobile facility.

In a further operation, a registration portal may be provided that enables the digital rights holder to register rights to the digital model or the 3D printed object, and some examples of the method 700 may include a digital rights registration of the 3D object in the public network And delivering the disclosure step or registration to the user or another third party.

Various modifications to the method 700 implementation are within the scope of embodiments of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, additional details and features may be provided. In some instances, a service is provided to the user 605 or the consumer to enable an enhanced online shopping experience. In various examples, the user 605 may select an item of interest, store it in a particular situation / category, and share all stored items in the category for a closed or open group of other users 605. [ The user 605 may share a list of one or more items with the desired quantity so that another person can view and purchase items for the user 605. [

The user 605 may view the "best" or "ranked" price for the item over the Internet, rather than just from a single merchant or a single site. The user 605 may also view a list of "best" prices from other merchants and locations, and accordingly the user 605 may provide the user 605 with "best" Or the most preferable one can be selected. The system can determine the user's 605 preferences, such as size, color, and other item functionality from previous purchases, so that when the items are returned, they include the "desired" or previously purchased user 605 functionality .

A list of stored items of interest may be displayed on a single page different from the online merchant. A list or display of items may show items placed in the cart to be purchased, items already purchased, items still pending for possible purchases. The user 605 may drag and drop or place individual items on the display of a single card on the user 605 display. A single card may show all selected items with a site or merchant offering each item. Once ready for purchase, the user 605 can view a pre-populated screen with the shipping address, delivery options, and funding source, and the user 605 can modify it if desired.

Using items or lists shared from others, the user 605 may select the desired item from the list for purchase. The user 605 may also view a pre-populated screen showing the recipient name and shipping address (of the person sharing the list with the user 605). Also, when an item is available at or below a particular user-specified price, a notification may be sent to the user 605, for example, via a character.

In some embodiments, the user 605 may express interest in the item. The system can search for the best deal for an item over the web, including any coupons that can be applied. Transactions can be color-coded to visualize the best deals. The user 605 may also indicate that a particular item is too expensive but wants to see a less expensive similar item, the same thing, and / or a knock-off, and the system may send the list to the user 605 Will return. The service provider may also provide the user 605 with a more useful offer or recommendation and may provide information to the merchant to increase the sale possibility.

It is contemplated that any feature and / or embodiment discussed herein may be incorporated into or combined with any other specific and / or embodiment.

Certain embodiments have been described herein as including logic or a plurality of components, modules, or mechanisms. A module may be comprised of a software module (e.g., code implemented on a machine readable medium or in a transmission signal) or a hardware module. A hardware module is a type of unit that is capable of performing a particular operation and may be configured or arranged in a particular manner. In an illustrative embodiment, one or more hardware modules (e.g., a group of processors or processors) may be implemented in one or more computer systems (e.g., standalone, client, or server computer systems) Application or application portion) that is configured as a hardware module and is operable to perform the specific operations described herein.

In various embodiments, the hardware module may be implemented mechanically and electronically. For example, a hardware module may include dedicated circuitry or logic that is permanently implemented (such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or a special purpose processor such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) to perform certain operations. The hardware module may also include programmable logic or circuitry (included in a general purpose processor or other programmable processor) temporarily configured by software that performs a particular operation. It can be appreciated that the decision to mechanically implement a hardware module in a circuit permanently configured exclusively or in a provisionally configured circuit (configured by software) can be derived by cost and time considerations.

Thus, the term "hardware module" includes a type of entity, which may be physically configured and operated in a particular manner and / or permanently configured (e.g., hardwired) For example, programmed). Considering an embodiment in which a hardware module is temporarily configured (programmed), each of the hardware modules need not be configured or exemplified in any one instance of time. For example, if a hardware module includes a general purpose processor configured using software, the general purpose processor may be configured as a different hardware module at different times. Thus, the software may, for example, configure a particular hardware module in one instance of time and configure the processor to configure different hardware modules in different instances of time.

A hardware module may provide information to other hardware modules and may receive information from other hardware modules. Thus, the described hardware modules may be regarded as being communicatively coupled. If multiple hardware modules are present at the same time, communication can be accomplished through signal transmission (via suitable circuitry and buses) connecting the hardware modules. In embodiments where multiple hardware modules are configured or illustrated at different times, communication between hardware modules may be accomplished through storage and retrieval of information in a memory structure that is accessed by, for example, multiple hardware modules. For example, one hardware module may perform operations on a communicatively coupled memory device and store the output of the operations. The additional hardware module may also access the memory device to retrieve and process the stored output later. A hardware module may also initiate communication with an input or output device and may operate on a resource (a collection of information).

The various operations of the exemplary method described herein may be performed, at least in part, by one or more processors that are temporarily configured (e.g., by software) or permanently configured to perform the associated operations. Whether provisioned or permanently configured, a processor may be comprised of modules implemented with a processor operative to perform one or more operations or functions. The modules referred to herein include modules implemented with a processor in some illustrative embodiments.

Similarly, the methods described herein may be implemented, at least in part, in a processor. For example, at least some of the operations of the method may be performed by a module implemented with one or more processors or processors. The performance of a particular operation may be distributed among one or more processors that are located within a single machine as well as across multiple machines. In some example embodiments, the processor or processors may be located in a single location (e.g., as a home environment, office environment, or server farm), but in other embodiments the processor may be distributed across multiple locations .

The one or more processors may also operate to support the performance of related operations in a "cloud computing" environment or "software as a service (SaaS) ". For example, at least some of the operations may be performed by a group of computers (examples of machines including processors), which operations may be performed via a network (e.g., network 404 of FIG. 4) Accessible via one or more suitable interfaces (e.g., APIs).

Exemplary embodiments may be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. Exemplary embodiments include, for example, a computer program product, such as, for example, a computer program product in a machine-readable medium for controlling the operation of, or for controlling by, a data processing device, e.g., a programmable processor, May be implemented using a computer program embodied in the information carrier.

A computer program may be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted language, and may be stored in any form including a standalone program or module, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment As shown in FIG. The computer programs may be arranged to run on one computer or on multiple computers interconnected by a communication network, distributed across a plurality of locations or at one location.

In an exemplary embodiment, an operation may be performed by one or more programmable processors executing a computer program to perform a function by operating on input data and generating an output. The method operation may also be performed by a special purpose logic circuit (e.g., an FPGA or an ASIC) and the apparatus of the illustrative embodiments may be implemented with special purpose logic circuitry.

The computing system may include a client and a server. The client and server are typically remotely from each other and typically interact with each other via a communication network (e.g., network 660. The client and server relationships are generated by computer programs running on separate computers, In embodiments using programmable computer systems, it is appreciated that both hardware and software architectures are worthy of consideration. In particular, in permanently configured hardware (e.g., an ASIC), in a temporarily configured hardware It will be appreciated that the selection of whether to implement a particular function in a combination of hardware, e.g., a combination of software and a programmable processor, or a combination of permanently and provisionally configured hardware may be a design choice. In the example, Hardware (e. G., Machine) and software architecture are presented.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a machine of a computer system 800 in the form of an example, wherein an internal instruction 824 causes the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein. In an alternative embodiment, the machine may operate as a standalone device or may be connected (e.g., networked) to another machine. In a networked deployment, the machine may operate as a server or client machine in a server-client network environment or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The machine may be a personal computer (PC), tablet PC, set top box (STB), personal digital assistant (PDA), cellular telephone, web appliance, network router, switch or bridge, , And specifies the action to be taken by this machine. Also, while only a single machine is shown, the term "machine" also includes any machine (e.g., a machine or a machine) that individually or jointly executes a set (or multiple sets) of instructions 824 to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein Lt; / RTI >

Exemplary computer system 800 includes a processor 802 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both), a main memory 804 and a static memory 806, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > 808 < / RTI > The computer system 800 may further include a video display unit 810 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT)). The computer system 800 also includes an alphanumeric input device 812 (e.g., a keyboard), a user interface (UI) navigation (or cursor control) device 814 (e.g., a mouse), a disk drive unit 816 A signal generating device 818 (e.g., a speaker), and a network interface device 820. [

The disk drive unit 816 may be a machine readable medium having stored thereon one or more sets of data structures and instructions 824 (e.g., software) implemented or utilized by any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein Media 822. The instructions 824 may also be located entirely or at least partially within the main memory 804 and / or within the processor 802 during their execution by the computer system 800 and may be stored in the main memory 804 and the processor 802 also constitute a machine-readable medium 822. The instructions 824 may also be completely or at least partially within the static memory 806. [

Although machine readable medium 822 is shown in the exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term "machine readable medium" refers to a medium or medium (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / Cache < / RTI > and a server). ≪ RTI ID = 0.0 > The term "machine-readable medium" will be taken to include any type of media capable of storing, encoding, or delivering instructions 824 for execution by a machine, and will allow the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies , Or to store, encode, or otherwise transfer data structures utilized or associated with this command (s) 824. Thus, the term "machine readable medium" will be taken to include, but is not limited to, solid state memory, optical and magnetic media. Particular examples of machine readable medium 822 include non-volatile memory and may include, by way of example, semiconductor memory devices (e.g., erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory ) And flash memory devices), magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable disks, magneto-optical disks, and compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM) and digital universal disk (or digital video disk) -ROM) disk.

The instructions 824 may be transmitted or received over the communication network 826 using a transmission medium. The instructions 824 may be transmitted using the network interface device 820 and a number of well known transport protocols (e.g., HTTP). Examples of communication network 826 include LAN, WLAN, Internet, mobile telephone network, POTS network, and wireless data networks (e.g., WiFi and WiMAX networks). The term "transmission medium" will be taken to include any type of media that is capable of storing, encoding, or communicating instructions 824 for execution by a machine, and may include digital or analog communications Signal or other < / RTI > intangible medium. The transmission medium is one embodiment of a machine-readable medium.

The following numbered examples are examples.

1. A system comprising at least one module running on one or more computer processors,

Wherein the at least one module comprises:

Receiving a request from a user to print a 3D object by a three-dimensional (3D) printer or printing service,

A conditional approval for printing the 3D object from an owner of the digital rights of the 3D object, the conditional approval including a printing specification or limitation,

Verifying, for structural integrity, a digital model on which the 3D object is based, when printed by the 3D printer or the printing service,

Based on the received conditional approval, transmits an instruction to the 3D printer or the printing service to print the 3D object

system.

2. The method of claim 1,

Wherein the conditional acknowledgment is a preauthorization for printing the 3D object, the at least one module also discloses the preauthorization in a public network

system.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2,

Wherein the at least one module also receives authentication of the 3D printer or the printing service, and discloses the authentication in a public network

system.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3,

The at least one module also allows the user to initiate a request for approval to print the 3D object from the owner of the digital rights for the 3D object

system.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4,

The at least one module may also include instructions for sending the command to the 3D printer or the printing service,

system.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5,

The at least one module also processes the monetary charge for the received conditional grant and remits the monetary charge to the owner of the digital rights of the 3D object

system.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,

The at least one module also communicates with the 3D printer service provider's network and is based on availability or suitability for performing 3D printing tasks or by listing other 3D printing service providers by other criteria received from the user

system.

8. The method of claim 7,

The network of the 3D printer service provider includes a mobile printing facility

system.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8,

The at least one module may also be used to embed, associate, or instruct the digital rights management device in an approved printed 3D object

system.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9,

The at least one module also creates a 3D printing option for display to the user, wherein the 3D printing option is one of a digital model download option, a print option, a shipping option, a same-day shipping option, and a print option in a kiosk or mobile facility Or more

system.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10,

Further comprising a portal that enables the digital rights holder to register rights to the digital model or the 3D printed object

system.

12. The method of claim 11,

The at least one module may also disclose a digital rights registration of the 3D object in a public network, or transfer the registration to the user or another third party

system.

13. As a method of managing digital rights,

Receiving a request from a user to print a 3D object by a 3D printer or printing service;

Receiving a conditional approval for printing the 3D object from an owner of the digital rights of the 3D object, the conditional approval comprising a printing specification or limitation;

Verifying the digital model on which the 3D object is based, for structural integrity when printed by the 3D printer or the printing service;

And sending an instruction to the 3D printer or the printing service to print the 3D object based on the received conditional acknowledgment

Digital rights management method.

14. The method of claim 13,

Wherein the conditional approval is pre-approval for printing the 3D object, and disclosing the pre-approval in a public network

Digital rights management method.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14,

Receiving the authentication of the 3D printer or the printing service and releasing the authentication in a public network

Digital rights management method.

16. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15,

Receiving an initiation of a request for approval to print the 3D object from an owner of the digital rights for the 3D object

Digital rights management method.

17. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 16,

The received conditional approval may be included in an instruction to be transmitted to the 3D printer or the printing service

Digital rights management method.

18. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 17,

Processing the monetary consideration for the received conditional approval and remitting the monetary value to the owner of the digital rights of the 3D object

Digital rights management method.

19. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 18,

Listing the 3D printing service provider based on availability or suitability for communicating with a network of 3D printer service providers and performing 3D printing tasks, or by other criteria received from the user

Digital rights management method.

20. The method of claim 19,

The network of the 3D printer service provider includes a mobile printing facility

Digital rights management method.

21. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 20,

Comprising embedding, associating or directing a digital rights management device in an approved printed 3D object

Digital rights management method.

22. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 21,

Wherein the 3D printing option includes at least one of a digital model download option, a print option, a shipping option, a same-day shipping option, and a print option in a kiosk or mobile facility doing

Digital rights management method.

23. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 22,

Further comprising enabling the digital rights holder to register rights to the digital model or the 3D printed object

Digital rights management method.

24. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 23,

Disclosing a digital rights registration of the 3D object in a public network, or communicating the registration to the user or another third party

Digital rights management method.

25. A machine-readable medium comprising a set of instructions,

Wherein the instructions, when executed by the machine, cause the machine to:

Receiving a request from a user to print a 3D object by a 3D printer or printing service,

Receiving a conditional acknowledgment for printing the 3D object from an owner of the digital rights of the 3D object, the conditional acknowledgment comprising a printing specification or restriction;

Verifying the digital model on which the 3D object is based, for structural integrity when printed by the 3D printer or the printing service;

Performing a set of operations including sending an instruction to the 3D printer or the printing service to print the 3D object based on the received conditional acknowledgment

Machine readable medium.

26. A computer system comprising means for performing the method of any one of claims 13 to 24.

27. A machine-readable medium comprising a set of instructions which, when executed by a machine, cause the machine to perform the method of any one of claims 13 to 24.

Although the embodiments have been described with reference to specific example embodiments, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes can be made to these embodiments without departing from the broad scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, show by way of illustration and not of limitation, specific embodiments in which the claimed subject matter may be practiced. The illustrated embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the teachings disclosed herein. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from them, and structural and logical substitutions and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, this description is not taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of various embodiments is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Embodiments of the claimed subject matter are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for the purpose of voluntarily limiting the scope of the present application to any single invention or inventive concept, Quot; invention ", without being limited thereto. Thus, while specific embodiments have been shown and described herein, it will be appreciated that any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all adaptations or variations of the various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments, will not be particularly described herein and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reviewing the above description.

The summary of the present disclosure is provided to enable the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It will be understood that they are not used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the foregoing detailed description, it is to be understood that the various features are grouped together in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The method of this disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, the claimed subject matter is presented less than all the specifics of a single disclosed embodiment. Accordingly, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.

Claims (27)

As a system,
At least one module executing on one or more computer processors,
Wherein the at least one module comprises:
Receiving a request from a user to print a 3D object by a three-dimensional (3D) printer or printing service,
A conditional approval for printing the 3D object from an owner of the digital rights of the 3D object, the conditional approval including a printing specification or limitation,
Verifying, for structural integrity, a digital model on which the 3D object is based, when printed by the 3D printer or the printing service,
Based on the received conditional approval, transmits an instruction to the 3D printer or the printing service to print the 3D object
system.
The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the conditional acknowledgment is a preauthorization for printing the 3D object, the at least one module also discloses the preauthorization in a public network
system.
The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the at least one module also receives authentication of the 3D printer or the printing service, and discloses the authentication in a public network
system.
The method according to claim 1,
The at least one module also allows the user to initiate a request for approval to print the 3D object from the owner of the digital rights for the 3D object
system.
The method according to claim 1,
The at least one module may also include instructions for sending the command to the 3D printer or the printing service,
system.
The method according to claim 1,
The at least one module also processes the monetary charge for the received conditional grant and remits the monetary charge to the owner of the digital rights of the 3D object
system.
The method according to claim 1,
The at least one module also communicates with the 3D printer service provider's network and is based on availability or suitability for performing 3D printing tasks or by listing other 3D printing service providers by other criteria received from the user
system.
8. The method of claim 7,
The network of the 3D printer service provider includes a mobile printing facility
system.
The method according to claim 1,
The at least one module may also be used to embed, associate, or instruct the digital rights management device in an approved printed 3D object
system.
The method according to claim 1,
The at least one module also creates a 3D printing option for display to the user, wherein the 3D printing option is one of a digital model download option, a print option, a shipping option, a same-day shipping option, and a print option in a kiosk or mobile facility Or more
system.
The method according to claim 1,
Further comprising a portal that enables the digital rights holder to register rights to the digital model or the 3D printed object
system.
12. The method of claim 11,
The at least one module may also disclose a digital rights registration of the 3D object in a public network, or transfer the registration to the user or another third party
system.
As a method of managing digital rights,
Receiving a request from a user to print a 3D object by a 3D printer or printing service;
Receiving a conditional approval for printing the 3D object from an owner of the digital rights of the 3D object, the conditional approval comprising a printing specification or limitation;
Verifying the digital model on which the 3D object is based, for structural integrity when printed by the 3D printer or the printing service;
Sending a command to the 3D printer or the printing service to print the 3D object based on the received conditional acknowledgment
Digital rights management method.
14. The method of claim 13,
Wherein the conditional approval is pre-approval for printing the 3D object, and disclosing the pre-approval in a public network
Digital rights management method.
14. The method of claim 13,
Receiving the authentication of the 3D printer or the printing service and releasing the authentication in a public network
Digital rights management method.
14. The method of claim 13,
Receiving an initiation of a request for approval to print the 3D object from an owner of the digital rights for the 3D object
Digital rights management method.
14. The method of claim 13,
The received conditional approval may be included in an instruction to be transmitted to the 3D printer or the printing service
Digital rights management method.
14. The method of claim 13,
Processing the monetary consideration for the received conditional approval and remitting the monetary value to the owner of the digital rights of the 3D object
Digital rights management method.
14. The method of claim 13,
Listing the 3D printing service provider based on availability or suitability for communicating with a network of 3D printer service providers and performing 3D printing tasks, or by other criteria received from the user
Digital rights management method.
20. The method of claim 19,
The network of the 3D printer service provider includes a mobile printing facility
Digital rights management method.
14. The method of claim 13,
Comprising embedding, associating or directing a digital rights management device in an approved printed 3D object
Digital rights management method.
14. The method of claim 13,
Wherein the 3D printing option includes at least one of a digital model download option, a print option, a shipping option, a same-day shipping option, and a print option in a kiosk or mobile facility doing
Digital rights management method.
14. The method of claim 13,
Further comprising enabling the digital rights holder to register rights to the digital model or the 3D printed object
Digital rights management method.
14. The method of claim 13,
Disclosing a digital rights registration of the 3D object in a public network, or communicating the registration to the user or another third party
Digital rights management method.
24. A machine-readable medium comprising a set of instructions,
Wherein the instructions, when executed by the machine, cause the machine to:
Receiving a request from a user to print a 3D object by a 3D printer or printing service,
Receiving a conditional acknowledgment for printing the 3D object from an owner of the digital rights of the 3D object, the conditional acknowledgment comprising a printing specification or restriction;
Verifying the digital model on which the 3D object is based, for structural integrity when printed by the 3D printer or the printing service;
Performing a set of operations including sending an instruction to the 3D printer or the printing service to print the 3D object based on the received conditional acknowledgment
Machine readable medium.
A computer system comprising means for performing the method of any one of claims 13 to 24.
24. A machine-readable medium comprising a set of instructions which, when executed by a machine, cause the machine to perform the method of any one of claims 13 to 24.

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